Rushcliffe Borough Council (RBC) is encouraging residents across the Borough to become Tree Wardens and help protect, care for, and enhance local trees and green spaces.
Becoming a Tree warden offers a rewarding opportunity to support conservation efforts, learn new skills, and boost personal well-being.
They act as the “eyes and ears” of their communities by monitoring tree health, advocating for their protection and promoting local biodiversity.
Tree Wardens are appointed by their Parish Council or RBC to:
- Be contact and support for all things tree related in their local area
- Protect trees by reporting on early signs of pests, disease and vandalism
- Gather information, survey and record information about trees important for wildlife and the heritage of the parish
- Help look out for more opportunities to plant more trees in the local community and enhancing the environment for parishioners
- Help to find grant funding for local tree planting projects
- Get involved in campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of trees
Trees offer a host of benefits such as providing habitats for wildlife, regulating climate and contributing to clean air and water. They also provide shade and shelter, are effective noise buffers and absorb pollutant.
They also enhance the natural beauty of towns and villages in the Borough and can help to boost people’s health and wellbeing.
RBC’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safey Cllr Rob Inglis recently joined Hickling Tree Warden Simon Lane, Nevile and Langar Ward Member Cllr Tina Combellack and RBC’s Ecology and Biodiversity Assistant Sandrina Finocchio-Daniels at Walkers’ Green play area to find out more about Simon’s impact in the community.
Cllr Inglis said: “It was great to meet Simon and see the difference he is making in Hickling and Hickling Pastures by planting and managing a variety of trees, helping to make the area greener and more vibrant.
“We’re encouraging residents across Rushcliffe to volunteer like Simon, as a Tree Warden to plant, protect and promote our local trees.
“No training or experience in tree management is needed – just a love of trees and a few hours to spare. So, if you’re passionate about trees and the environment, we urge you to get involved in this project.
“We will help to provide support and guidance for all tree wardens by offering training courses, networking opportunities, links to funding opportunities and more to help you succeed in the role.
“Town and Parishes will also be on hand to help with information and advice including health and safety and insurance. They will also invite you to meetings and report on any tree related matters.
“Join our growing network of Tree Wardens who care passionately about trees and sign up by calling 0115981 9911 or email environmentalissues@rushcliffe.gov.uk!”
Simon Lane added: “’I have been involved in garden design and tree planting for the past 25 years and I have always had an interest in arboriculture as a professional tree surgeon and surveyor.
“I was concerned about the loss of trees and becoming a Tree Warden was an opportunity to get involved with woodlands and promote tree planting and woodland management with our local landowners.
“We have a number of ancient local trees that we need to protect and manage for the next generation.
“I encourage anyone interested to get involved and become a Tree Warden for your local area!”
Cllr Tina Combellack said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference in your community by protecting and enhancing our natural environment.
“I’m passionate about trees and re-greening the Borough. I fully support famers, landowners, Parish Councils, and residents in planting more trees across our wonderful rural Borough.”
